Month: June 2021

India on Saturday cut taxes on medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators and drugs used to treat COVID-19 infections, after widespread criticism over healthcare costs during a devastating second wave of the virus in April and May. The government cut taxes on medical grade oxygen, ventilators, the remdesivir antiviral drug, diagnostic kits, pulse oximeters and hand sanitizers to 5% from 12-18% with immediate effect. The new levies will be in place until the end of September, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, adding it would include taxes on electric furnaces in crematoriums and ambulances. "The rate cut has not be done with any cost implication (on government finances) in mind, it has been done so that people get some ease....the decision has been taken to provide ultimate eas...

COLUMBUS, Ohio — It's important to remember, even if you are fully vaccinated, there's still a chance you can get COVID-19. Columbus Public Health Commissioner Dr. Mysheika Roberts says vaccines are very effective in preventing hospitalization and death from the disease. You could still have mild symptoms or an asymptomatic case. But Dr. Roberts says as of now, they don't think it’s possible for vaccinated individuals to pass along COVID, but they “don’t know that for sure.” “We still have to be careful and that's why we still have to be cognizant, so stay home if you're sick is really going to be with us forever,” she said. “You don't know i...

Seven new cases of COVID-19 and one hospitalization were reported today in Humboldt County. The total number of county residents who have tested positive for the virus stands at 4,415.  The person who was hospitalized is in their 50s. A total of 195 people have been hospitalized in Humboldt County since the beginning of the pandemic. None of them were vaccinated. As vaccination rates rise throughout the state, California is preparing to end the Blueprint for a Safer Economy on June 15. At this time, employees and customers in all businesses must continue to mask and socially distance regardless of vaccination status.  On June 9, California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) withdrew its proposed revisions to facial covering guidance for the workplace. Currently, wor...